PROBLEMS OF PROTECTIONISM AND THEIR SOLUTIONS IN SUPPORTING NATIONAL PRODUCERS DURING THE WTO ACCESSION PROCESS

Abstract

This paper examines the issues of supporting national producers and unifying traditional protectionist barriers in the context of the Republic of Uzbekistan's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The interplay of tariff and non-tariff regulations, as well as the impact of GATT (1994) and the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures (SCM) requirements on domestic market stability, are analyzed. Research results indicate that transitioning from direct price and volume subsidies ("Amber Box") to "Green Box" measures focused on institutional and technological transformation increases the total factor productivity (TFP) of domestic enterprises by 12–15%, reduces vulnerability to import shocks, and expands export potential. The paper presents the mechanisms of "smart protectionism," CGE and gravity modeling approaches, SPS/TBT regulations, and relevant conclusions.